Construction Manager in Pueblo, CO

The Salary Picture: Where Pueblo Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers, because that’s what matters when you’re weighing a move. For a Construction Manager in Pueblo, CO, the median salary is $105,742 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $50.84 per hour. This is based on recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the Pueblo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). For context, the national average salary for Construction Managers is $108,210 per year. Pueblo sits slightly below the national figure, but this is offset by the city's significantly lower cost of living.

To understand where you fit into that $105,742 median, here’s a realistic breakdown by experience level. These are estimates based on local job postings, industry standards, and the regional market.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities in Pueblo
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$75,000 - $90,000	Project coordination, submittal management, basic cost tracking, onsite supervision for single-family or small commercial jobs.
Mid-Level (4-8 years)	$95,000 - $115,000	Managing mid-size projects ($1M-$5M), direct client interaction, full budget and schedule control, supervising junior staff.
Senior-Level (9-15 years)	$120,000 - $145,000	Overseeing large projects ($5M+), complex public works (e.g., school expansions, hospital renovations), strategic planning, high-level subcontractor negotiations.
Expert/Executive (15+ years)	$150,000+	Portfolio management, business development, executive oversight of multiple projects, specialist in heavy industrial or complex healthcare construction.

Insider Tip: In Pueblo, senior managers with heavy industrial experience (think steel mill maintenance or large-scale fabrication) or expertise in healthcare construction (Saint Mary-Corwin is a major client) can command salaries at the top end of these ranges. The 10-year job growth for this metro area is 8%, which is steady but not explosive. This means competition for the best jobs is real, but opportunity is consistent for those with the right credentials.

When comparing to other Colorado cities, Pueblo offers a distinct value proposition. Denver's median salary for Construction Managers hovers around $125,000, but you'd be facing a 30-40% higher cost of living. Colorado Springs is closer, with a median around $112,000, but its housing market is also notably pricier than Pueblo's. You're taking a slight salary trade-off for a major affordability win.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $105,742 sounds solid, but let's see what it means for your monthly budget in Pueblo. We'll use a single filer with no dependents for this example, assuming a 22% federal tax bracket, 4.4% for Social Security, 1.45% for Medicare, and a state income tax of 4.4% (Colorado's flat rate).

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Pre-Tax to Net)

• Gross Monthly Income: $105,742 / 12 = $8,812
• Estimated Monthly Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$2,350
• Estimated Net Monthly Take-Home: $6,462

Now, let's factor in the local cost of living, starting with rent. The average 1BR rent in Pueblo is $881 per month, but this varies by neighborhood (more on that later). The Cost of Living Index for Pueblo is 92.4 (U.S. Average = 100), meaning it's about 7.6% cheaper than the national average.

Sample Monthly Budget (Net Income of $6,462):

• Housing (1BR Apartment): $900 (using a slightly higher estimate for a nice place in a decent area)
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): $250
• Groceries: $450
• Transportation (Car Payment, Insurance, Gas): $600 (Pueblo is car-dependent)
• Health Insurance (Employer-Subsidized): $300
• Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment, Personal Care): $700
• Savings/Debt Payment: $3,262

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a net monthly surplus of over $3,200, a Construction Manager in Pueblo is in an excellent position to save for a down payment. The median home price in Pueblo County is approximately $275,000. A 20% down payment would be $55,000. Using your strong income and a conservative budget, you could realistically save that amount in 18-24 months. Your monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $275,000 home would likely be around $1,600-$1,700, which is very manageable on your take-home pay.

Where the Jobs Are: Pueblo's Major Employers

Pueblo's construction market is driven by a mix of public institutions, heavy industry, and regional development. You won't find the skyscraper projects of Denver, but you'll find stable, long-term work with strong local firms.

1. Pueblo School District 60 & 70: Major ongoing projects include school modernizations, security upgrades, and new facility construction. These are publicly bid contracts that require experienced managers.
2. Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo): The campus is in a state of growth, with new academic buildings, student housing, and athletic facility projects. They often partner with large construction firms.
3. Saint Mary-Corwin Medical Center (Centura Health): This is a key employer for healthcare construction managers. They have continuous renovation, expansion, and maintenance projects. Insider Tip: Getting in with the facilities management team here can lead to long-term contract work.
4. Evraz Rocky Mountain Steel: A cornerstone of Pueblo's economy. While some project work is handled internally, they contract with local firms for major mill expansions, maintenance buildings, and infrastructure projects. Experience with industrial safety (OSHA 30, etc.) is critical here.
5. City of Pueblo & Pueblo County: The municipal government manages a constant stream of public works: water treatment facilities, road and bridge projects, parks, and public buildings. Check the city's "Bids & Proposals" portal regularly.
6. Major Regional Contractors: Firms like JHL Constructors, GE Johnson Construction, and H.W. Houston Construction have a strong presence in Southern Colorado. They often lead the largest commercial and institutional projects in Pueblo.
7. Pueblo Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO): While not a direct employer, PEDCO tracks all major industrial and commercial development. Their announcements are a leading indicator of upcoming construction jobs, especially in the advanced manufacturing and logistics sectors near the Pueblo Memorial Airport.

Hiring Trend: The market is stable, not frenetic. Jobs are filled through a mix of online postings (Indeed, LinkedIn), company websites, and old-fashioned networking at the Pueblo Chamber of Commerce or the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Colorado Southern Chapter events.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

Colorado does not have a state-specific construction contractor's license in the same way some states do. Instead, licensing is handled at the local (city/county) level. However, there is one critical statewide credential for managers working on public projects.

• Statewide Requirement - Designated Managing Employee (DME): For any company bidding on public works projects in Colorado, the firm must have a designated employee who meets qualifications. The DME must have at least four years of experience in the construction field (with at least one year as a foreman, superintendent, or manager) and pass a state-approved exam (like the NASCLA National Examination). If you work for a firm that does public work, you will likely need to become their DME.
• City of Pueblo License: If you plan to start your own firm or act as a prime contractor, you must obtain a City of Pueblo Contractor's License. This requires:
  • A completed application.
  • Proof of general liability insurance (minimum $300,000).
  • A surety bond (amount varies by project type).
  • Payment of application fees (typically $100-$200).
  • For certain trades (electrical, plumbing), you'll need a separate state license from the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations.
• Costs and Timeline:
  • Exam Fee (if needed for DME): ~$250-$400.
  • Insurance/Bond Costs: Highly variable. For a small firm, budget $2,000-$5,000 annually for insurance and a bond line.
  • Timeline: The city license application process can take 2-4 weeks. Preparing for and taking the DME exam can add another 1-2 months. Pro Tip: Start this process before you move if you're planning to start your own business.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Your choice of neighborhood will affect your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Pueblo is divided by the Arkansas River, with distinct vibes on the North and South sides.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Average 1BR Rent	Why It's a Good Fit
Pueblo West	Suburban, family-friendly, newer homes. 20-30 min to most job sites.	$1,000 - $1,200	Great for managers with families. Quieter, more modern housing stock. Easy access to I-25 for jobs in the north.
North Side (Near CSU Pueblo)	Mixed, student-heavy near campus, more established residential further out. 10-20 min commute.	$800 - $1,050	Central location. Close to major employers like the university and Saint Mary-Corwin. Younger, active vibe.
South Side (Bessemer)	Working-class, historic, industrial roots. 10-25 min commute.	$700 - $900	Affordable. Close to Evraz and major rail lines. Authentic Pueblo feel, walkable in parts.
Downtown / Union Ave Historic District	Urban, revitalizing, walkable. 5-15 min commute to most sites.	$850 - $1,100	For the manager who wants a "city" feel. Restaurants, arts, and a short commute. Parking can be a challenge.
El Camino / Von Schrader	Quiet, established, middle-class. 15-25 min commute.	$750 - $950	Safe, stable, and affordable. Good mix of single-family homes and apartments.

Insider Tip: If your job is at Evraz or in the industrial park, living on the South Side or Bessemer will cut your commute significantly. For jobs at the hospital or university, the North Side or Downtown are ideal.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Pueblo, career growth for Construction Managers is less about vertical leaps in massive corporations and more about specialization and network depth.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Heavy Industrial (Steel, Manufacturing): Can command a 10-15% premium over general commercial rates due to the complexity and safety requirements.
  • Healthcare Construction: A high-demand specialty. Managers with CHFM (Certified Healthcare Facility Manager) or similar credentials are highly sought after by Saint Mary-Corwin and other facilities.
  • Public Works/Estimating: Expertise in government contracting, bid writing, and cost estimation for public projects is a valuable and stable niche.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Project Manager → Senior Project Manager → Director of Operations: The standard path within a construction firm.
  2. Field Superintendent → Project Executive: Moving from day-to-day site management to high-level oversight and client relations.
  3. Owner's Representative: Working directly for a client (like CSU Pueblo or a hospital) to manage their construction projects. This is a sought-after role that leverages your contractor experience.
  4. Start Your Own Firm: With your experience and network, starting a small specialty firm (e.g., doing metal building retrofits or commercial tenant improvements) is a viable long-term goal.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth is tied to Pueblo's expanding industrial base (thanks to the EV steel mill and other manufacturers) and steady public sector investment. While not a boomtown, it offers stability. The key to long-term growth will be building a deep local network and specializing in the sectors driving the local economy: advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

The Verdict: Is Pueblo Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Exceptional Affordability: Your $105,742 salary goes much further here than in Denver or Colorado Springs.	Limited High-End Project Variety: You won't be managing skyscrapers or mega-resorts.
Stable Job Market: Consistent work with top local employers and a healthy 8% growth.	Car-Dependent City: Public transit is limited; owning a reliable vehicle is a must.
Short Commutes: Most job sites are within a 20-minute drive, even in traffic.	Smaller Professional Network: Fewer industry events than in larger metros. You have to be proactive.
Outdoor Access: Easy to get to the Lake Pueblo State Park, mountains for hiking, and great fishing.	Pace of Life is Slower: If you crave a 24/7 urban environment, Pueblo might feel quiet.
No State Licensing Hurdle: The local license process is straightforward.	Economic Sensitivity: Tied to a few major industries (steel, education, healthcare).

Final Recommendation: Pueblo is an excellent choice for a Construction Manager who prioritizes quality of life, affordability, and stability over the frenetic pace and high costs of a major metro. It's ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, raise a family, and build a sustainable career with a strong local reputation. If you're a specialist in industrial, healthcare, or public works construction, you'll find a welcoming market. If you're a recent graduate seeking a vast array of project types, you might consider starting here for 2-3 years to gain experience before moving to a larger city.

FAQs

1. I'm moving from out of state. Do I need to get licensed before I apply for jobs?
No. Most employers will hire you based on your experience and qualifications. You can work under the company's license while you establish yourself. If you plan to start your own business, you should begin the licensing process as soon as you arrive.

2. How competitive is the job market for Construction Managers in Pueblo?
It's moderately competitive. With only 222 jobs in the metro area, openings don't come daily. Networking is crucial. Attend AGC meetings and connect with local firms on LinkedIn. The right experience (especially in industrial or public work) will make you a standout candidate.

3. What's the best way to find a job in Pueblo?
Start with local job boards: the Pueblo Chieftain's website, the City of Pueblo's job page, and the Colorado Workforce Center. Also, go directly to the websites of the major employers and contractor firms listed above. A well-timed application for a public works project bid can be your ticket in.

4. Is Pueblo a good place for my family?
Generally, yes. The low cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle, good schools in suburbs like Pueblo West, and plenty of outdoor activities. The crime rate is higher than the national average in specific areas, so research neighborhoods carefully (the North Side and Pueblo West are typically the safest bets).

5. Can I work remotely as a Construction Manager in Pueblo?
Partially. You can handle pre-construction, estimating, and project management tasks remotely, but the job requires significant on-site presence. Most local firms will require you to be in the office and on job sites regularly. However, the short commute makes this manageable.